Where to Go in Kumamoto

Yatsushiro

Sitting along the coast of the Yatsushiro sea, in the center of Kumamoto you’ll find the city of Yatsushiro. It’s worth visiting if you find yourself travelling through Kumamoto Prefecture. The second largest city in the Prefecture after Kumamoto City, Yatsushiro is home to a number of impressive sights including the scenic Yatsushiro Castle remains, the Momigi Suspension Bridge and Yatsushiro Shrine, which comes alive during the autumn Yatsushiro Myoukensai, one of Kyushu’s biggest festivals.

Yatsushiro Castle Ruins

Kumamoto Pref. Yatsushiroshi Matsuejoumachi 7-34

0965352448

Free entry

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Miike Coal Mines Remains in Arao

Located between northern Kumamoto and southern Fukuoka is The Miike Coal Mines, a collection of coal mines and remains, a fascinating relic from the Meiji Industrial Revolution. Two of the mines, the nearby Miike Port and the railway that connected them all together have been given world heritage status in recent times. Here you can explore the mine grounds, and chat with volunteer guides who will give more insight into the daily lives of the mine workers. If you want to learn more, make your way to the Manda Tankoka museum which offers extra exhibits and displays about the area’s industrial history.

Miike Coal Mine (Manda Pit)

4.0

63 Reviews

Kumamoto Pref. Araoshi Haramanda 200-2

0968579155

[Open Hours] 9:30-17:00 (Adm…

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Kumamoto Castle

One of the more popular tourist spots in Kumamoto is Kumamoto Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Japan. Originally constructed in the early 1600s, the castle became famous for its intricately designed fortifications, which helped it survive over 400 years. Having suffered serious damage during the April 2016 earthquake, the inner grounds have been closed off to the public indefinitely, but you can still admire the stunning structure from the outside area. The city is hoping to have the main keep back to its former glory within the next three years.

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Pref. Kumamotoshichuouku Honmaru 1-1

0962235011

9:00-17:00(Last entry16:30)

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Daikanbo Viewing Point

To get a fresh view of Kumamoto, head to the Daikanbo Viewing Point, located just outside of Aso City. With incredible 360 degree views of Aso and the surrounding mountain ranges, the area is a great place to take a day or afternoon trip, with its walking paths, gift stores and nearby cafés all offering plenty to see and do. The viewing platform is just a 10-minute walk from the carpark, making it easily accessible for visitors of all ages. Be sure to keep a lookout for the famous peaks of Aso Gogaku which are said to look like a sleeping Buddha, many locals call this view Nehanzo (Nirvana Buddha).

Mt. Daikanbo

Kumamoto Pref. Asoshi Yamada

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Paraglide Over Daikanbo & the Five Peaks of Aso in Kumamoto

¥18,000

Update date：2023/08/15

Ancient Burial Mound Museum in Yamaga

Travel back in time by paying a visit to Ancient Burial Mound Museum in Yamaga city in the northern area of Kumamoto. The striking museum was designed by one of Japan’s most famous architects Tadao Ando, the man behind the Akita Museum of Art, the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, and Tokyo Skytree. Inside the museum you’ll find a number of displays covering all facets of ancient Kumamoto. Head to the annex to join in on the historical painting classes, unglazed earthenware making, and other creative workshops on offer.

Kumamoto Prefectural Ancient Burial Mound Museum

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24 Reviews

Kumamoto Pref. Yamagashi Kaoumachiwabaru 3085

0968362151

9:30-17:15(Last entry16:45)

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